The Many Benefits of Awe
Scientists have been studying the positive emotion of awe for about 15 years and though still in its infancy, researchers have a lot to say about this emotion that leaves us feeling breathless, wide-eyed and full of wonder. Whether we’re gazing at a magnificent sunset, immersed in a beautiful piece of art or listening to music that has strong personal resonance, the experience of awe seems to provide us with a multitude of physical and mental health benefits.
Among the numerous benefits we derive from awe are elevated moods, increases in general health, a marked difference in kind and generous behaviours and increased critical thinking patterns. Recent research has also found that awe may help us to stop ruminating on our problems and everyday stressors.
During the month of October many organizations highlight Mental Health Awareness through a variety of educational sessions. It seems that the research findings on awe may provide us with one practical way in which we can decrease our daily stress and increase our overall physical and mental well-being. Dacher Keltner, professor of psychology at University of California, Berkely, who has researched and written extensively on awe, says …“One simple prescription can have transformative effects: Look for more daily experiences of awe.”
On a recent trip to Utah where I hiked for a week at two national parks, my own personal experience was that – while one doesn’t need to travel to magnificent parks to experience awe – it certainly helps. The extraordinary vistas that surrounded me at every turn, were truly awesome, leaving me with a sense of peace and wonder.
Where do you find moments of awe?
